Photo of Kuwait City by Mayer Tawfik
Kuwait has officially launched the Needlefish, a cutting-edge unmanned surface vessel (USV) developed by British companies SRT Marine Systems and Ocean Infinity. This launch represents a major advancement in maritime surveillance technology as part of Kuwait’s $213 million Project Vigilant, an integrated system designed to enhance maritime domain awareness and security.
A leap in maritime security
The Needlefish USV is a 14-meter, twin-hulled vessel powered by twin marine jet engines, capable of speeds exceeding 40 MPH thanks to its unique wave-slicing hull design. It is engineered for Kuwait’s challenging maritime environment and serves as a central component of the national surveillance system, which integrates advanced radar, specialised cameras, and radio frequency sensors through SRT Marine’s proprietary Dynamic-AI GeoVS MDA system.
Multifaceted operational capabilities
Equipped to perform a range of missions, the Needlefish can intercept suspicious vessels to strengthen border security, conduct search and rescue operations, perform escort and deterrence patrols, monitor fisheries, conduct covert surveillance, detect pollution, and assist in seabed mapping. These operations are remotely managed from the Kuwait Coast Guard’s newly built onshore Command Centres, fully integrated within SRT’s C5iSR maritime surveillance network.
Strategic impact and collaboration
The successful deployment of the Needlefish underscores Kuwait’s commitment to adopting unmanned technology to modernise its maritime security capabilities. This project also highlights the growing role of UK-based maritime technology companies, as SRT Marine Systems and Ocean Infinity collaborate on delivering this state-of-the-art USV solution.
Future outlook
With Needlefish now active in service, Kuwait is expected to significantly enhance its maritime domain awareness and rapid response capabilities. The project may serve as a model for other nations aiming to upgrade their maritime security infrastructure by integrating unmanned surface vessels and advanced sensor technologies (full report).